Gene Expression at the Molecular Level II: Non-coding RNAs

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to non-coding RNAs and their roles in gene expression, chromatin structure, translation, and genome defense.

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs)

RNA molecules that do not encode polypeptides and perform various regulatory roles in gene expression.

HOTAIR

A non-coding RNA that alters chromatin structure and represses transcription by guiding histone-modifying complexes.

miRNA (microRNA)

Small non-coding RNA that regulates gene expression by inhibiting translation of target mRNAs.

siRNA (small-interfering RNA)

Short RNA molecules that can target mRNAs for degradation and are involved in RNA interference.

CRISPR-Cas system

A bacterial adaptive immune system that utilizes ncRNAs to defend against foreign genetic elements like viruses.

Signal Recognition Particle (SRP)

A ribonucleoprotein involved in targeting proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum in eukaryotic cells.

RNA interference (RNAi)

A biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation by neutralizing target mRNA.

Genome defense

Mechanisms employed by organisms to protect their genome from foreign genetic materials, often involving ncRNAs.